From the Guidelines
Diseases caused by medical treatment are a significant concern, and it is essential to identify the causative agent to prevent further morbidity and mortality, as evidenced by a recent study published in 2024 1.
Overview of Drug-Induced Atrial Fibrillation
The study highlights the risk factors for drug-induced atrial fibrillation, including previous history of AF, lower body mass index, premature atrial complexes, and increased LA, among others.
- The drugs listed as potential causes of atrial fibrillation include Acetylcholine, Adenosine, Alkylating agents, Amiodarone, Anthracyclines, Antipsychotics, BCR-ABL tyrosine kinase inhibitors, Bisphosphonates, Brunton tyrosine kinase inhibitors, CAR T-cell therapy, Chemotherapy drugs, Dobutamine, Flecainide, Fluoropyrimidines, Corticosteroids, Ibrutinib, Immune checkpoint inhibitors, Inotropic and vasoconstrictor agents, Interferons, Interleukin-2, Ivabradine, Melphalan, Milrinone, Mitoxantrone, Proteasome inhibitors, Prostate cancer ADT, Theophylline, Tyrosine kinase inhibitors, VEGF inhibitors, and Verapamil.
- It is crucial to review the pharmacological history of patients with new-onset atrial fibrillation to identify potential drug-induced causes, as this can impact treatment and outcomes, as noted in the study 1.
Clinical Implications
The study emphasizes that drug-induced atrial fibrillation can be a benign condition, but it can also persist and require cardioversion to restore sinus rhythm.
- Furthermore, the risk of stroke in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation is not different from that in persistent or permanent atrial fibrillation, highlighting the need for careful management and monitoring 1.
- Healthcare providers should be aware of the potential risks and benefits of various medications and consider alternative treatments when possible to minimize the risk of drug-induced atrial fibrillation, as supported by the evidence 1.
From the Research
Diseases Caused by Medical Treatment
There are no research papers to assist in answering this question, as the provided studies focus on the importance of patient history and physical examination in medical diagnosis, rather than diseases caused by medical treatment.
Related Concepts
- The studies provided emphasize the value of a comprehensive patient history and physical examination in informing diagnosis and treatment 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
- Key aspects of history taking include:
- Active listening
- Empathetic communication
- Cultural sensitivity
- The physical examination is a valuable tool in patient evaluation, even in settings where evidence is limited 6
- A thorough history and physical examination can help narrow down or establish a diagnosis, and protect patients from unnecessary testing 4